Final answer:
To prevent endocarditis in a child with congestive heart failure, especially with a history of rheumatic fever, prophylactic antibiotics like benzathine benzylpenicillin are used regularly, and additional antibiotics may be administered during procedures that risk introducing bacteria to the bloodstream.
Step-by-step explanation:
A child with congested heart failure may be on specific antibiotics to prevent endocarditis. This is especially true if they have a history of rheumatic fever, which is an autoimmune response to the bacterium, Streptococcus pyogenes. Prevention of rheumatic fever and subsequent cardiac issues, including endocarditis, often involves a prophylactic antibiotic regimen. The American Heart Association recommends treatment with benzathine benzylpenicillin every 3 to 4 weeks for such cases. In the event of dental procedures or other situations that might introduce bacteria to the bloodstream, additional antibiotics such as ampicillin, nafcillin, or gentamicin may be used for synergistic coverage of Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp.